A dispute over U2 rocker The Edge's plans to build a number of new houses in his Malibu, California neighbourhood has stepped up - chiefs at the California Coastal Commission have called for the request to be rejected.The guitarist, real name David Evans, wants to erect a range of private homes in the exclusive beachfront community where he lives. But residents have hit out at the proposal, claiming the 1,000-acre development would mean the closure of a popular archery club and have a disastrous effect on local wildlife. Officials at the California Coastal Commission filed documents last week (end30Jan11) urging local government bosses to deny the request, stating, "The area is undeveloped and comprised of steep, rugged mountain terrain that (is) blanketed by various natural rock outcroppings and primarily undisturbed native chaparral habitat. "The proposed construction of single family residences... is not consistent with... the guidance policies of the Malibu-Santa Monica Mountains (and) would result in significant impacts to visual resources." The Edge has argued that the housing would be "environmentally friendly", adding, "I hope you will agree that my partners and I have worked diligently to design homes that will meet the highest environmental standards." A meeting to decide on the application is to be held on 10 February (11).